2023 Kia Seltos is the South Korean automaker’s smallest crossover, and we expect it to return for a third model year in 2023 as a carryover model.
Sharing the platform with the Hyundai Kona, the 2023 Kia Seltos is an attractive and feature-packed option in the subcompact crossover class, with few drawbacks.
The current Kia Seltos has a very stylish exterior with an athletic look reminiscent of many of the trendiest vehicles in the subcompact crossover category.
With deep creases, a “floating” roof, and a fake dual exhaust, it looks a lot hotter than it is. Inside, most 2023 Kia Seltos models get a large touchscreen infotainment system and an elegant dashboard that looks very contemporary.
Features included on high-end models include a premium Bose sound system with voice-linked mood lighting, voice command navigation, and satellite radio.
Two power plants are available via the 2023 Kia Seltos line, and neither is very powerful. Lower-end models get a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine, while the Nightfall Edition and SX Turbo trim to get a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine.
All-wheel drive is available as standard on most trims, which can make the 2023 Kia Seltos an attractive proposition at its price point.
Is Kia Seltos Good Car The 2023 Kia Seltos are equipped with standard safety features including automatic emergency braking, fixed lane assist, automatic headlights, and driver attention monitor, while the top trim is available with adaptive cruise control and road driving assistance?
IIHS only awarded the top-of-the-line SX model the Top Safety Pick award thanks to its headlights, and NHTSA, unfortunately, only gave it four stars in crash testing.
2023 KIA Seltos Review
The Kia Seltos Facelift, which was supposed to appear at the Busan motor show next month, has now launched its overall appearance, both exterior and interior. Quoted from careexpert.com.au, the exterior changes to the front are quite a lot.
For example, the shape of the new grille and bumper as well as the DRL whose model has changed becomes more futuristic.
The most significant changes can be seen from the rear of the Kia Seltos. The shape of the lamp is now more vertical, plus there is an LED bar that connects from right to left.
In addition, the bumper has also changed its design. Now the fake exhaust part of the old Seltos is gone, replaced with a more manly model with silver bumper guard accents in the middle.
Then from the side, the change is in the design of the new 18-inch alloy rims. In addition, a fresh new look can be seen in the interior. In the cabin, the instrument cluster is now integrated between the speedometer and the head unit.
Both use a 10.25-inch screen so it looks modern because of its connected design.
For the center console, you can see changes in the gear stick or transmission lever model.
The Facelift model from Seltos no longer uses a lever, but instead has a circular electronic shift dial. Kia has not announced more detailed specifications regarding the Seltos Facelift until the Busan Motor Show in July.
But reportedly, in the second half of 2022 Seltos Facelift will soon be marketed in Australia. Then whether Kia Indonesia will also present the Seltos Facelift? interesting to wait.
Especially now that the compact SUV segment is getting busier with the presence of the Hyundai Creta and the New Honda HR-V.
Kia Seltos 2023
The Kia Seltos 2023 is a subcompact SUV that delivers a surprising number of features and a cabin that feels way above its modest price tag. Inside, there’s plenty of room for four adults (three in the back squeezed), plus plenty of luggage in the ample cargo area.
Where the 2023 Kia Seltos stumbles a bit is in terms of horsepower and powertrain refinement. The base engine is fine for city driving, although it quickly runs out of steam at highway speeds.
An optional turbocharged 4-cylinder provides even more oomph, except it is equipped with a 7-speed automatic dual-clutch which can be a bit tricky when changing gears.
If keeping a tight SUV budget is a major concern, standard engines are cheaper and fuel consumption is better.
Kia doesn’t skimp on standard features. Each 2023 Kia Seltos is equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, three driver-selectable driving modes (Normal, Sport, Eco), and a range of driver safety aids. This includes automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, driver attention warning, fixed lane assistance, and more.
Adding to the overall appeal of the 2023 Kia Seltos is its stylish exterior. We like the available 2 color roof configuration which adds to the fun factor of this small SUV.
The Kia Seltos may suffer from middle child syndrome, receiving less attention than siblings on either side. On the one hand, it was eclipsed by the cool and funky Kia Soul. On the other hand, the all-new Kia Sportage will debut, ushering in a new style language for the South Korean automaker.
Stuck in the middle isn’t the only reason 2023 Kia Seltos is often overlooked. Just as we love the 2023 Kia Seltos for its large cargo capacity and solid styling, the front seats could have had some upgrades to help with long-distance comfort. Nor is it very inspiring to drive on winding mountain roads.
A few rumors are floating around the internet that a 2023 Kia Seltos style refresh is on the way and a hybrid powertrain could be added to the lineup.
If the rumors prove to be true, and the seats are reworked and the suspension realigned, it might see the 2023 Kia Seltos rise from its rather low position in the extra-small SUV class.
As it stands, it’s far from challenging the top-ranked Edmunds Volkswagen Taos, Chevrolet Trailblazer, and Mazda CX-30. It even loses to its boxy sibling the Kia Soul. Check back in mid-year to see if 2023 Kia Seltos is on track to receive the update.
New Kia Seltos 2023 Changes
Kia wants to stay one step ahead of the competition in the crowded crossover market. Kia Seltos
introduced in the US as the 2021 model year as a new subcompact crossover that sits between the full-size Telluride and the small Soul and features a sleek design that sets it apart in the crowded segment.
Competition in the crossover market is fierce, so Kia is wasting time upgrading the 2023 Kia Seltos to stay one step ahead of its competitors.
Just one year after its American debut, the 2023 Kia Seltos was updated for the 2022 model year with new standard safety technologies, and now Kia is already working on a mid-cycle update that will bring about even more significant changes.
Currently, under the hood of the Kia Seltos AS comes a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine with 146 horsepower and 132 Nm of torque, or a more powerful 1.6-liter engine with 175 hp.
According to the Korean Automotive Blog, a new, more efficient hybrid version of the 2023 Kia Seltos will join the lineup as part of an interim update in 2023, and the new hybrid Seltos will replace diesel engines in overseas markets.
This model is not sold in the United States. It is said to use the same hybrid setup as the Kia Niro, which combines a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor to produce 139 horsepower.
And 195 lb-ft of torque. In terms of potential launc In the US, we believe the new Seltos Hybrid will be the new base model for the US.
In terms of economy, the EPA rates the Niro as a 23/30/26 mpg highway/city/combination but expects the larger 2023 Kia Seltos hybrid to be a bit more fuel-efficient.
As part of the facelift, we also expect the 2023 Kia Seltos to be refreshed with redesigned front and rear bumpers, revamped grille, and new graphics for the headlights and taillights.
A prototype was spied on in South Korea completely undercover, but hopefully, it won’t be long until our spy photographers capture the American model in the wild.
Since the 2023 Kia Seltos was only introduced for the 2021 model year in the US market, the facelifted model is likely to go on sale in late 2022 as early as the 2023 model. A fully electric Kia Seltos is also in the works according to the leaked documents.
2023 Kia Seltos Redesign
Korean automaker Kia has started testing the new 2023 Kia Seltos facelift on foreign soil. The facelifted Kia Seltos 2023 has been spotted during cold-weather testing in Scandinavia. The spotted model was heavily camouflaged with dark thick fabric; However, it still reveals some of the changes it has to offer.
The facelifted Kia Seltos comes with a revised front grille that is not split into two distinct sections. The vehicle will likely come with an updated headlight setup and a new front bumper.
Not only the front, but the rear of the facelifted Kia Seltos also gets some styling changes. It comes with new stylish L-shaped taillights. Reflectors are now placed on the redesigned rear bumper.
Details about the cabin have not been revealed; However, the spotted model has camouflage on the door panels as well as on the dashboard.
It is expected that the new model will come with some interior updates. The vehicle will likely get a newly designed steering wheel, new switchgear, and possibly an upgraded touchscreen infotainment system along with revised connected car technology.
In the global market, the 2023 Kia Seltos midsize SUV is offered with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine that produces 146bhp and 179Nm of torque. The new model is expected to receive a turbocharged 1.6L 4-cylinder engine that produces 175bhp and 264Nm of torque.
Previous reports indicated that the facelifted Kia Seltos could receive a new hybrid powertrain, which will be sourced from the Niro. The powertrain consists of a 1.6-liter engine and an electric motor that offers a combined output of 139bhp.
In India, the 2023 Kia Seltos is available with 3 engine options – 114bhp, 1.5L NA petrol, 114bhp, 1.5L turbo-diesel and 138bhp, 1.4L turbocharged petrol engine. Indian spec models may also receive a mild-hybrid version to meet the forthcoming CAFÉ & BSVI emission standards.
2023 Kia Seltos Facelift
KIA Seltos 2023 Facelift Australia has confirmed that the first-generation 2023 Kia Seltos small SUV will get a mid-life facelift.
Due to entering showrooms in the second half of next year, the facelifted 2023 Kia Seltos has yet to be revealed, although its front fascia is expected to be redesigned, likely in line with Kia’s new design language, which is featured on the upcoming fifth-generation Sportage mid. – SUV size.
As such, the 2023 Kia Seltos was able to revamp everything – from the hood and headlights to the grille and front bumper – in a bid to keep it looking fresh against its rivals the MG ZS, Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30, Mitsubishi ASX, and Subaru XV.
Other expected changes to the 2023 Kia Seltos include upgrades and expansion of the advanced driver assistance system, including an active version of blind-spot monitoring and rear traffic warning, and the introduction of Lane Following Assist and Safe Exit Warning.
Cyclist detection can also be added to the 2023 Kia Seltos autonomous emergency braking system (AEB) across Australia, with currently limited to the more expensive variant locally.
Inside, the 2023 Kia Seltos may be available with a digital instrument cluster, while it could also match the latest Kona facelift by getting a more powerful tone (146kW, +16kW) from the available 1.6-liter turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine.
Of course, we’ll have to wait until the facelifted 2023 Kia Seltos rolls out to find out what’s really in store, so stay tuned. For reference, pre-facelift models are priced from $26,790 to $42,200 plus on-road fees.
2023 Kia Seltos Electric
A report from South Korea this week indicated that Kia is developing a hybrid variant of the 2023 Kia Seltos sub-compact SUV and that it could be ready for the 2023 model year.
Kia is one of the most aggressive automakers when it comes to electrification of its lineup, and what’s more, Kia is almost alone in its focus on providing electrification options to budget-conscious buyers.
In addition to the all-electric Niro EV and Soul EV, it now offers a Sorento hybrid in our market and will launch the Sportage hybrid for the 2023 model year.
According to the Korean Car Blog, the 2023 Kia Seltos will be the next to receive a hybrid-electric powertrain. The proof is internal documentation showing that when the model, which was first launched in the summer of 2019, gets a mid-cycle revision for 2023, it will include a new powertrain option that includes an electric motor.
It will inherit the same powertrain currently used for the Niro hybrid variant. The blog adds that the hybrid configuration will serve as a replacement for the diesel variants being sold in some markets, but that there is nothing to prevent Kia from bringing in the new 2023 Kia Seltos hybrid.
It wasn’t a given, but given that the automaker has been aggressive until now in electrifying the North American fleet, there’s every reason to think it will follow the same strategy as the 2023 Kia Seltos.
Read next: Introducing All-New 2023 Buick Enclave Looks Captivating
2023 Kia Seltos Hybrid
Is Kia Seltos Fuel Efficient The Kia Seltos will be updated next year – and rumors now suggest a hybrid option will join the line-up, with combined fuel consumption as low as four liters per 100 kilometers.
The facelifted Kia Seltos 2023 has been spied on testing for the first time, ahead of an Australian launch in the second half of 2022 – and hybrid power could be on the agenda.
Images published to South Korea’s Autopsy show a 2023 Kia Seltos prototype clad in heavy camouflage testing in the home market – and while specific styling details are hard to see, the black cladding appears to hide the revised front and rear similar to Kia’s new Sportage medium SUV.
The alloy wheels look new, as does the signature LED inside the headlights. Some changes are visible in the taillights, though a new lighting sign seems likely.
No images of the facelifted 2023 Kia Seltos cabin have surfaced, although the current model already offers Kia’s mid-level 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen (recently added to the small car Cerato), the updated SUV could get a larger 12.3-inch center screen. larger than the Sportage, or the 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster in front of the driver.
Whether these items will come to Australia remains unclear, given that the 10.25-inch instrument screen offered with the facelifted Cerato in South Korea is not available Down Under.
No engine changes are expected for the core range, with a 110kW/180Nm 2.0-liter non-turbo and 130kW/265Nm 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, paired to a CVT automatic transmission and a seven-speed automatic clutch.
However, The Korean Car Blog reports diesel engines available overseas will be discontinued, and a new ‘self-charging’ hybrid system introduced, in a bid to bring down market leader Toyota.
The website says the 2023 Kia Seltos Hybrid will use the same powertrain as the new-generation Niro Hybrid – the same system as the old car – mating a 1.7-liter 77kW/147Nm non-turbo petrol engine with a 32kW/170Nm electric motor to combine. 104kW and 265Nm outputs.
The Niro Hybrid currently cites claims of a combined 3.8L/100km fuel consumption, although the 2023 Kia Seltos’ larger body lacking aerodynamics should see it drop to all fours – still competitive with the 4.3L/100km of the Toyota C-HR Hybrid.
A Niro front-wheel-drive layout and a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission will be carried.
On the safety front, upgrades are not easy to predict, given that the current 2023 Kia Seltos already offers Kia’s latest blind-spot and rear cross-traffic assist system – which can detect and brake for danger – and intersection support built into autonomous emergencies. braking system.
The Kia Seltos 2023 is slated for launch in the first half of next year, ahead of an Australian launch in the second half of 2022.
If the hybrid option flashes green for Australia, it will be Kia Australia’s fourth hybrid SUV, following the plug-in and plug-in versions of the Niro and Sorento hybrids – with the Sportage Hybrid available overseas also on the local arm’s wish list.
2023 KIA Seltos Color
2023 KIA Seltos Exterior Paint
- Steel Gray
- Cherry Black
- Snow White Pearl
- Gravity Gray
- Mars Orange
- Neptune Blue
- Dark Ocean Blue
- Dark Ocean Blue
- Starbright Yellow
- Dark Ocean Blue / Clear White
- Dark Ocean Blue / Clear White
- Dark Ocean Blue / Cherry Black
- Dark Ocean Blue / Cherry Black
- Starbright Yellow / Cherry Black
- Starbright Yellow / Cherry Black
- Clear White / Cherry Black
- Clear White / Cherry Black
Seat Trim
- Black SynTex Seat Trim
- Black SynTex Seat Trim
- Gray SynTex Seat Trim
- Gray SynTex Seat Trim
- Plum SynTex Seat Trim
- Plum SynTex Seat Trim
2023 Kia Seltos Release Date
The KIA Seltos 2023 Release Date – of the Kia Seltos 2023 is likely to be in late Summer/early Fall 2022. When Does 2023 KIA Seltos Come Out, It will be available for purchase at Kia dealers.
2023 Kia Seltos Price
We expect the Kia Seltos 2023 subcompact SUV to start at around $23,000 for the base model.
These include a 146-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine paired to a continuously variable automatic transmission.
Notably, even the base model 2023 Kia Seltos comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD). That’s the case with all Seltos trims except the S, which comes standard with front-wheel drive and optional AWD.
Many SUV buyers would consider upgrading at least one step above the entry-level 2023 Kia Seltos if only to have access to features like the larger 10.25-inch infotainment screen that comes standard on all models except the base model.
At the top of the range, the Seltos SX Turbo comes standard with a 175-horsepower turbo 4-cylinder engine and includes a Bose audio system, Highway Drive-Assist with adaptive cruise control, digital gauge cluster, and safe exit assist. Pricing for the Seltos SX Turbo 2023 is expected to be in the $28,000 region.
Is Kia Seltos Overpriced Prices are not expected to change dramatically. Currently, 2023 Kia Seltos start at $23,665 and range up to $29,165.
2023 KIA Seltos Pricing & Features
2023 Seltos LX – $22,840 Starting MSRP *
Capabilities and Comfort
- 2.0L 4-Cylinder Engine w/ 146hp & 132 lb.-ft. of torque
- All-Wheel Drive – with Torque Vectoring and Center Lock
- Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT)
- 17-inch Alloy Wheels
- Sound-Absorbing Windshield Glass
- Privacy Glass
Convenience and Innovation
- 8.0-inch Touchscreen Display
- Remote Keyless Entry w/ Vehicle Immobilizer
- Rear-View Monitor
- Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™
- Split Folding Rear Seats
- Dual-Level Cargo Floor
Kia Drive Wise Driver Assist Technology
- Auto Emergency Braking Technology
- Lane Following Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Rear Occupant Alert
- High Beam Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
2023 Seltos S – $22,890 Starting MSRP *
Capabilities and Comfort
- 2.0L 4-Cylinder Engine w/ 146hp & 132 lb.-ft. of torque
- Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT)
- Signature Light integrated in Gloss Black Grille
- Roof Rails
- LED Daytime Running Lights and Tail Lights
- Cloth and SynTex Seating Materials
- Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
- Available Heated Front Seats
Convenience and Innovation
- 8.0-inch Touchscreen Display
- Rear-View Monitor
- Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Smart Key w/ Push Button Start and Remote Start
- Automatic Climate Control
- Leather-Wrapped Gear Shift Knob
- Dual Level Cargo Floor
- Heated Outside Mirrors w/ LED Turn Signals
- Available S Navigation Package
Kia Drive Wise Driver Assist Technology
- Auto Emergency Braking Technology
- Blind Spot Detection and Collision Avoidance Technology
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Avoidance Technology
- Lane Following Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Rear Occupant Alert
- High Beam Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
2023 Seltos EX – $26,140 Starting MSRP *
Capabilities and Comfort
- 2.0L 4-Cylinder Engine w/ 146hp & 132 lb.-ft. of torque
- All-Wheel Drive – with Torque Vectoring and Center Lock
- Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT)
- Sunroof
- 17-inch Alloy Wheels, Machined Finish
- SynTex Seat Trim
- Power Driver’s Seat, Heated Front Seats
- Solar Control Glass
Convenience and Innovation
- 10.25-inch Touchscreen Display w/ Navigation, Kia Connect, and SiriusXM®
- Satellite Radio
- Rear-View Monitor
- Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Smart Key w/ Push Button Start and Remote Start
- Wireless Phone Charger
- Automatic Climate Control
- Dual-Level Cargo Floor
- Heated Outside Mirrors w/ LED Turn Signals
Kia Drive Wise Driver Assist Technology
- Auto Emergency Braking Technology
- Blind Spot Detection and Collision Avoidance Technology
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Avoidance Technology
- Lane Following Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Rear Occupant Alert
- High Beam Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
2023 Seltos Nightfall Edition – $27,040 Starting MSRP *
Capabilities and Comfort
- 1.6L 4-Cylinder Turbocharged Engine w/ 175hp & 195 lb.-ft. of torque
- All-Wheel Drive – with Torque Vectoring and Center Lock
- 7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission
- 18-inch Alloy Wheels, Matte Black Finish
- Black Roof Rails and Exterior Accents
- LED Daytime Running Lights and Tail Lights
- Cloth and SynTex Seating Materials
- Available Two-tone roof
Convenience and Innovation
- 10.25-inch Touchscreen Display w/ Navigation, Kia Connect, and SiriusXM®
- Satellite Radio
- Rear-View Monitor
- Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Smart Key w/ Push Button Start and Remote Start
- Automatic Climate Control
- Leather-wrapped Steering Wheel and Gear Shift Selector
- Dual-Level Cargo Floor
- Heated Outside Mirrors w/ LED Turn Signals
Kia Drive Wise Driver Assist Technology
- Auto Emergency Braking Technology
- Blind Spot Detection and Collision Avoidance Technology
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Avoidance Technology
- Lane Following Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Rear Occupant Alert
- High Beam Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
2023 Seltos SX – $28,340 Starting MSRP *
Capabilities and Comfort
- 1.6L 4-Cylinder Turbocharged Engine w/ 175hp & 195 lb.-ft. of torque
- All-Wheel Drive – with Torque Vectoring and Center Lock
- 7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission
- 18-inch Alloy Wheels, Machined Finish
- LED Headlights and Fog Lights
- Leather-Wrapped Flat-Bottom Steering Wheel
- SynTex Seating Materials
- Power Driver’s Seat
- Heated Front Seats
Convenience and Innovation
- 10.25-inch Touchscreen Display w/ Navigation, Kia Connect, and SiriusXM®
- Satellite Radio
- 7.0-inch Instrument Display
- Rear-View Monitor
- Bose Premium Audio w/ Sound Connected Mood Lamp
- Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™
- Smart Key w/ Push Button Start and Remote Start
- Wireless Phone Charger
- Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror
- Smart Cruise Control w/ Stop & Go
Kia Drive Wise Driver Assist Technology
- Auto Emergency Braking Technology w/ Cyclist Detection
- Blind Spot Detection and Collision Avoidance Technology
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Avoidance Technology
- Safe Exit Warning
- Lane Following Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Rear Occupant Alert
- High Beam Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- Colors